One morning, Freya’s mummy says, “It’s time for Poppy’s check-up at the vet.”
Freya feels a little worried.
“What if Poppy doesn’t like it?”
Mummy smiles.
“The vet is there to help Poppy stay happy and healthy. Remember how well she managed her first injections? Today she just needs to be weighed and checked. It’s just like when you go to the doctor for a check-up.”
Freya proudly helps Mummy hold Poppy’s lead as they walk to the surgery.
Poppy’s tail wags happily. She wants to explore every interesting smell her nose discovers, so they stop often to let her sniff. After many little pauses, they reach the vet’s door.
Inside the waiting room are all sorts of animals.
A fluffy cat peeps out from its carrier.
Another carrier is covered with a blanket, and Freya wonders what little animal might be hiding underneath.
An elderly spaniel lies quietly beside its owner.
Poppy sniffs the air, taking in all the interesting new smells.
Soon Dr Patel calls them in.
“Hello, Freya! Hello, Poppy!”
Poppy’s paws slip slightly on the shiny floor as she trots inside.
She sniffs Dr Patel’s coat as Dr Patel places her on the scales.
“Let’s check how much she’s grown.”
“You’ve been feeding her just right — she’s growing very well.”
Then Dr Patel gently lifts Poppy onto the examination table. She checks Poppy’s ears, bright eyes and tiny teeth, then listens carefully to her heartbeat.
“All perfect,” she says. “Strong and healthy. All done.”
She gives Poppy a treat.
“Good girl, Poppy!”
Then she hands Freya a sticker.
“You’re a wonderful puppy owner. Keep looking after Poppy just like this, and she’ll stay happy and healthy.”
Freya doesn’t feel worried about visiting the vet anymore. Now she knows the vet is a friend.
Outside the surgery, Freya kneels down and cuddles Poppy.
“You were so brave,” she whispers.
Poppy gives her a happy lick on the nose, making them both laugh.
“Shall we walk through the park on the way home?” Mummy asks.
“Yes!” says Freya.
Poppy trots beside them, pleased with her treat and enjoying the sunshine.
Back home, Freya gives Poppy one more cuddle, grateful that her little puppy is healthy and well.